The only gay pride event in the Arab world has been canceled after the organizer was held by police. Hadi Damien was detained overnight on Tuesday and said after his release: ‘Beirut Pride made a lot of people proud of Lebanon. Hadi Damien was detained overnight on Tuesday and said after his release: ‘Beirut Pride made a lot of people proud of Lebanon. ‘And this cancellation made a lot of people sad and disappointed.’ He was held by Lebanese authorities who released him only when he signed a pledge to cancel the week’s remaining events. Last year, Lebanon became the first Arab country to hold a gay pride week, though the opening event was canceled because of safety concerns after threats of violence.